When to sow Lobelia seeds? Detailed sowing methods

The growth state and overall performance of a plant change with the timing of sowing, so the sowing time is key to the entire growth of the plant. Different species have somewhat different growth habits, so the sowing time for Lobelia should be determined according to the growth needs of Lobelia.

When to sow Lobelia seeds

1. Autumn sowing

The best sowing time is September, and no later than November, as too low a temperature affects the seed germination rate. When sown in August, the seedlings will form very early, and will bloom around February to March of the following year. However, due to the influence of the growing environment, it is difficult to guarantee sunlight, temperature and so on, so the flowering effect is not very good.

2. Spring sowing

Spring sowing is generally done between January and March, when the temperature gradually warms, plants grow faster, and the climate conditions are pleasant, making it more suitable for plant growth. However, spring sowing also has disadvantages: as the temperature gradually rises, plants grow faster, leaving a relatively short time for pinching to control the shape, so to achieve a good shape you need to pinch in time. But it is precisely because it is a suitable growing season that the flowering period lasts relatively long.

Sowing methods for Lobelia

Lobelia seeds are very small, and sowing them one by one is very laborious, so the broadcast sowing method is recommended. First prepare a little sand, sift it, mix a small amount of sand with the seeds, spread evenly over the ground, cover with a thin layer of soil, just a very thin layer, and spray water onto the surface with a spray bottle. Never wash directly with a strong stream of water, as it will wash the seeds away.

The hole sowing method can also be used. You can use folded paper to help distribute them, sowing about 10 seeds per cell tray, approximately, or one seed per cell is also fine; separating into pots later is also convenient, but it tests patience and eyesight.

Growing methods and precautions for Lobelia

1. Light

Lobelia is not shade-tolerant and must grow under full light to grow normally. When cared for at home, it must be placed where sunlight can shine directly. If there is insufficient light, try to take Lobelia to a place with sufficient light for three to four hours of exposure every day. It can only bloom normally under long-day, low-temperature conditions.

2. Temperature

Lobelia is a cool-season flower, but its cold resistance is not strong, so it cannot overwinter outdoors in the north; it dislikes intense heat and enters a dormant state when summer temperatures are high.

3. Soil

It prefers loose, fertile soil rich in humus.

4. Water

Watering should be based on the care environment, pot soil size and growth condition. In general, just keep the pot soil moist. When watering, water thoroughly.

5. Fertilizer

Fertilize selectively as needed; fertilize more during the growing season, and stop fertilizing in winter when temperatures are low.

6. Pinching and pruning

Pinching and pruning is a simple way to control the plant shape of Lobelia. Pinching during the growth period promotes the growth of lateral buds; with more branching, there are also more flower buds.

7. Pests and diseases

During the growth period of Lobelia, you need to frequently observe the growth condition of the Lobelia plant. Using some fungicidal and insecticidal agents to prevent mold or red spider mite damage keeps Lobelia growing healthily.

The flowering period of Lobelia

Lobelia is a very important flowering plant. It generally blooms in spring, in February and March, and the flowers are mainly terminal or axillary, looking somewhat like butterflies.

The flower colors of Lobelia are also relatively rich, including red, peach red, purple, white and so on. The distinctive blue Lobelia is a common flowerbed plant in spring.

Lobelia can be divided into spring sowing and autumn sowing, and spring sowing is the better planting time among them, as we can enjoy a longer flowering period, so the editor here suggests that you had best choose spring sowing; however, if the season happens to be unsuitable, choosing autumn sowing is also the next-best option.